Record Finder / 26-000598-TT
Michigan

Phillip Croff Petitioner V Township Of Hamlin Respondent

Petitioner
Phillip Croff
Respondent
Township Of Hamlin

Case overview

Docket number
26-000598-TT
Status
Ready Schedule
CaseType
SC Property
Division
Small Claims Division
County
Mason
Judge
No judge assigned

Docket history

Line #SubjectFilerLine RefEnter Date/Post MarkFeeRelated Item
9Notice of FilingNot recordedNot recorded09/16/2026Not recordedDownload
8DocumentationRESPNot recorded07/07/2026Not recordedDownload
Not recordedNot recordedNot recordedNot recordedNot recordedNot recordedDownload
7Answer was receivedRESPNot recorded07/07/2026Not recordedDownload
Not recordedNot recordedNot recordedNot recordedNot recordedNot recordedDownload
6Petition has been verifiedPET106/18/2026Not recordedDownload
5Notice of Docket Number SCNot recordedNot recorded06/18/2026Not recordedDownload
4Evidence was received.PETNot recorded04/14/2026Not recordedDownload
3Attachments to the Petition were filedPETNot recorded04/14/2026Not recordedDownload
2Attachments to the Petition were filedPETNot recorded04/14/2026Not recordedDownload
1A petition was received.PETNot recorded04/14/2026Not recordedDownload

Documents

SC-Notice_of_Filing_of_Answer.2026-09-16_11-16-13.pdfRead complete document text →
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Page 1

STATE OF MICHIGAN

GRETCHEN WHITMER

GOVERNOR

DEPARTMENT OF LICENSING AND REGULATORY AFFAIRS

LANSING

MARLON I. BROWN, DPA

DIRECTOR

MICHIGAN TAX TRIBUNAL · 611 W. OTTAWA ST., LANSING, MI 48933 · 517-335-9760

PO BOX 30232, LANSING, MI 48909 · Other Carriers: 2407 N. GRAND RIVER AVE., LANSING, MI 48906

Phillip Croff,

Petitioner,

MICHIGAN TAX TRIBUNAL

SMALL CLAIMS DIVISION

v 

MTT Docket No. 26-000598

Township Of Hamlin,

Respondent.

NOTICE OF FILING

TAKE NOTICE that a Small Claims answer has been filed and the electronic copy of the 

answer can be reviewed by utilizing the Docket Lookup on the Tribunal’s website. 

Unless Respondent was defaulted, this case is ready to be scheduled for a Small 

Claims hearing and will be scheduled in the normal course of scheduling. You will 

receive a Notice of Hearing from the Tribunal by e-mail if you have identified an email 

address in the petition or other documentation. The Notice of Hearing will inform you of 

the date, time, and location of your hearing (note that your hearing will likely be 

conducted by telephone). Please read the Notice of Hearing as it includes important 

information.

EVIDENCE: Parties are required to submit all evidence to the Tribunal and send a copy 

to the opposing party at least 21 days before the hearing date even if the documents 

had been submitted to the local Board of Review or the Michigan Department of 

Treasury. If the documents are not timely submitted to the Tribunal and served on the 

opposing party, the documents may be excluded. Documents may be filed with the 

Tribunal by mail or through the Tribunal’s e-filing system. Documents may be sent to the 

opposing party by mail or by e-mail, if the parties agree to service by e-mail.

Alternate Dispute Resolution Options

INFORMAL SETTLEMENT CONFERENCE: Parties have the option of handling this 

case through an informal settlement conference. An informal settlement conference 

is a meeting between the parties and/or their representatives to discuss the issues in a 

case in an effort to settle the case. This process may be an alternative to a hearing with 

a judge and may result in the parties’ filing a Joint Stipulation for Entry of Consent 

Judgment. Visit the Tribunal’s ADR webpage for more information.

NOTE: The parties may not request an informal settlement conference to discuss an 

appeal of a principal residence exemption that was denied by either the Michigan 

Department of Treasury or a County. Also, state taxes levied by the Michigan 

Department of Treasury, such as income taxes, are not subject to the informal 

settlement conference process.

Page 2

MTT Docket No. 26-000598

Page 2 of 2

MEDIATION: Parties have the option of handling this case through mediation. 

Mediation is a voluntary process where a mediator facilitates communication between 

the parties, assists in identifying issues, and helps explore solutions to promote a 

mutually acceptable settlement. This process may be an alternative to a hearing with a 

judge and may result in the parties’ filing a Joint Stipulation for Entry of Consent 

Judgment. Visit the Tribunal’s ADR webpage for more information.

If you have any questions, please contact the Tribunal by phone at (517) 335-9760 or 

email taxtrib@michigan.gov.

By: Tribunal Clerk

Entered: 

PROOF OF SERVICE

I certify that a copy of the foregoing was sent on the entry date indicated above to the 

parties or their attorneys or authorized representatives, if any, utilizing either the mailing 

or email addresses on file, as provided by those parties, attorneys, or authorized 

representatives.

By: Tribunal Clerk

Page 3

STATE OF MICHIGAN

GRETCHEN WHITMER

GOVERNOR

DEPARTMENT OF LICENSING AND REGULATORY AFFAIRS

LANSING

MARLON I. BROWN, DPA

DIRECTOR

MICHIGAN TAX TRIBUNAL · 611 W. OTTAWA ST., LANSING, MI 48933 · 517-335-9760

PO BOX 30232, LANSING, MI 48909 · Other Carriers: 2407 N. GRAND RIVER AVE., LANSING, MI 48906

Phillip Croff,

Petitioner,

MICHIGAN TAX TRIBUNAL

SMALL CLAIMS DIVISION

v 

MTT Docket No. 26-000598

Township Of Hamlin,

Respondent.

NOTICE OF FILING

TAKE NOTICE that a Small Claims answer has been filed and the electronic copy of the 

answer can be reviewed by utilizing the Docket Lookup on the Tribunal’s website. 

Unless Respondent was defaulted, this case is ready to be scheduled for a Small 

Claims hearing and will be scheduled in the normal course of scheduling. You will 

receive a Notice of Hearing from the Tribunal by e-mail if you have identified an email 

address in the petition or other documentation. The Notice of Hearing will inform you of 

the date, time, and location of your hearing (note that your hearing will likely be 

conducted by telephone). Please read the Notice of Hearing as it includes important 

information.

EVIDENCE: Parties are required to submit all evidence to the Tribunal and send a copy 

to the opposing party at least 21 days before the hearing date even if the documents 

had been submitted to the local Board of Review or the Michigan Department of 

Treasury. If the documents are not timely submitted to the Tribunal and served on the 

opposing party, the documents may be excluded. Documents may be filed with the 

Tribunal by mail or through the Tribunal’s e-filing system. Documents may be sent to the 

opposing party by mail or by e-mail, if the parties agree to service by e-mail.

Alternate Dispute Resolution Options

INFORMAL SETTLEMENT CONFERENCE: Parties have the option of handling this 

case through

Page 4

M

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007-410-028-00 Change Notice Copy.pdfRead complete document text →
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Page 1

No

Yes

5. WAS THERE A TRANSFER OF OWNERSHIP IN 2025 THAT RESULTED IN A TAXABLE VALUE UNCAPPING?

6. Assessor Change Reason(s):

Exempt As "Disabled Veteran or

Surviving Spouse":

Yes

No

SCHOOL DISTRICT CODE:

LEGAL DESCRIPTION:

CROFF PHILLIP TRUSTEE

5485 N OTTER RIDGE DR

LUDINGTON, MI 49431

Exempt As "Qualified Forest Property"

Exempt As "Development Property":

THIS IS NOT A TAX BILL

Notice of Assessment, Taxable Valuation, and Property Classification

Michigan Department of Treasury,

1019 (Rev. 10-25)

ACCORDING TO MCL 211.34c THIS PROPERTY IS CLASSIFIED AS:

1. TAXABLE VALUE:

LUDINGTON, MI 49431

% Exempt As "Qualified Agricultural Property":

PARCEL IDENTIFICATION

-5,000

687,800

-5,000

PROPERTY ADDRESS:

No

X

Yes

EXEMPTIONS

OWNER'S NAME AND ADDRESS/PERSON NAMED ON ASSESSMENT ROLL:

PARCEL NUMBER:

This form is issued under the authority of Public Act 206 of 1893, Sec. 211.24c and Sec.211.34c, as amended. This is a model assessment notice to be used by the local assessor.

L-4400

FROM

HAMLIN TOWNSHIP

DEREK C EATON, MAAO

3775 N JEBAVY DRIVE

LUDINGTON, MI 49431

007-410-028-00

5485 N OTTER RIDGE DR

PRIOR YEAR'S CLASSIFICATION

CURRENT TENTATIVE

AMOUNT YEAR:

PRIOR AMOUNT

YEAR:

CHANGE FROM

PRIOR YEAR TO

CURRENT YEAR

2025

2026

692,800

687,800

-5,000

2. ASSESSED VALUE:

687,800

692,800

3. TENTATIVE EQUALIZATION FACTOR:

1.000

4. STATE EQUALIZED VALUE (SEV):

692,800

% Exempt As "Homeowners Principal Residence": 100.0000%

% Exempt As "MBT Industrial Personal":

0%

% Exempt As "MBT Commercial Personal":

0%

Market Adjustment

PART 410 027 00 NEW 1987 86PARTRIDGE POINTE NORTH SUBDIVISION LOT 28

401

53040

Residential

X

The change in taxable value will increase/decrease

your tax bill for the 2026 year by approximately:

-$126

0%

Yes

X No

Residential

401

X

The 2026 Inflation rate Multiplier is: 1.027

Questions regarding the Notice of Assessment, Taxable Valuation, and Property Classification may be directed to the Following:

Name:

DEREK C EATON

Telephone Number:

(888) 714-9288

3

Email Address:

ASSESSOR@HAMLINTOWNSHIP.ORG

March Board of Review Appeal Information. The Board of Review will meet at the following dates and times:

THE HAMLIN TOWNSHIP BOARD OF REVIEW WILL MEET ON TUESDAY MARCH 10TH FROM 2-5PM AND 6-9PM, AND

THURSDAY MARCH 12TH FROM 9 AM-12PM AND 1 - 4 PM FOR THE PURPOSE OF EQUALIZING THE 2026 ASSESSMENT ROLL.

PLEASE CALL 231-845-7801 FOR AN APPOINTMENT - WALK INS ACCEPTED DURING TIMES NOTED. APPEALS MAY BE

SUBMITTED IN WRITING TO: HAMLIN TOWNSHIP ASSESSOR, 3775 N. JEBAVY DRIVE, LUDINGTON, MI 49431 OR

ASSESSOR@HAMLINTOWNSHIP.ORG

YOUR PROPERTY MAY BE VISITED IN 2026 FOR ASSESSMENT ROLL MAINTENANCE.

Page 2

Guidance regarding Form 1019, 

Notice of Assessment, Taxable Valuation, and Property Classification 

Not less than 14 days before the first meeting of the Board of Review, the assessment notice shall be mailed to the 

property owner. 

Property taxes are calculated based on the Taxable Value (Line 1). State Equalized Value is the Assessed Value multiplied 

by the Equalization Factor, if any. State Equalized Value must approximate 50% of market value. 

The Taxable Value number entered in the “Change from Prior Year to Current Year” Column, does not indicate a change in 

your taxes. The change in your tax bill is estimated above Line 1. 

State Equalized Value is the Assessed Value multiplied by the Equalization Factor, if any. State Equalized Value must 

approximate 50% of market value. 

IF THERE WAS A TRANSFER OF OWNERSHIP on your property in 2025, your 2026 Taxable Value will be the same as 

your 2026 State Equalized Value. 

IF THERE WAS NOT A TRANSFER OF OWNERSHIP on your property in 2025, your 2026 Taxable Value is calculated 

by multiplying your 2025 Taxable Value by 1.027 (Inflation Rate Multiplier for the current year). Physical changes in your 

property may also increase or decrease your Taxable Value. Your 2026 Taxable Value cannot be higher than your 2026 

State Equalized Value. 

The Taxable Value, the Assessed Value, the State Equalized Value, the Property Classification, or the Transfer of 

Ownership may be appealed by filing a protest with the Local Board of Review. Protests are made to the Board of 

Review by completing a Board of Review Petition Form. A Petition Form may be obtained directly from the local 

unit or from the Michigan Department of Treasury's website at www.michigan.gov/taxes. Click on the “Property 

Taxes” box, select “Forms and Instructions,” then click on “Board of Review” to obtain a “Petition to the Board 

of Review,” Form 618 (L-4035). 

The denial of an exemption from the local school operating tax for “qualified agricultural properties” may be appealed to 

the local Board of Review. The denial of an exemption from the local school operating tax for 

a “homeowner's principal 

residence” may be appealed to the Michigan Tax Tribunal by filing a petition within 35 days of issuance of this notice. The 

petition must be a form approved by the Michigan Tax Tribunal, which are available at www.michigan.gov/taxtrib. 

Filing a protest with the Board of Review is necessary to protect your right to further appeal exemption disputes and 

valuation disputes involving property classified Agricultural Real or Personal, Residential, or Timber-Cutover to the 

Michigan Tax Tribunal and classification appeals to the State Tax Commission. Properties classified Commercial Real, 

Industrial Real or Developmental Real may be appealed to the regular March Board of Review

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Page 1

STATE OF MICHIGAN

GRETCHEN WHITMER

GOVERNOR

DEPARTMENT OF LICENSING AND REGULATORY AFFAIRS

LANSING

MARLON I. BROWN, DPA

DIRECTOR

MICHIGAN TAX TRIBUNAL · 611 W. OTTAWA ST., LANSING, MI 48933 · 517-335-9760

PO BOX 30232, LANSING, MI 48909 · Other Carriers: 2407 N. GRAND RIVER AVE., LANSING, MI 48906

MICHIGAN TAX TRIBUNAL

Docket Number: 26-000598

Is this case currently pending in the Small Claims Division? Yes

Party Filing Document 

Respondent

Files

Document Type: Documentation

Attachment File Name: 007-410-028-00 Change Notice Copy

Fee Information

Filing Fee: $ 0.00

Payment Information

Payment: $ 0.00

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007-410-028-00 Record Card.pdfRead complete document text →
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Page 1

Printed on

07/07/2026

Parcel Number:

007-410-028-00

Jurisdiction:

HAMLIN TOWNSHIP

County: Mason

Grantor

Grantee

Sale

Price 

Sale

Date

Inst.

Type

Terms of Sale

Liber

& Page

Verified

By

Prcnt.

Trans.

COMPTON W D & REBECCA BRO CROFF PHILLIP TRUSTEE

1,050,000

08/29/2024

WD

03-ARM'S LENGTH

2024R04254

DEED

100

VETTERGREN KATHRYN

COMPTON WD & REBECCA BROW

850,000

06/11/2004

WD

03-ARM'S LENGTH

561.1636

DEED

100.00

VETTERGREN ERIK H JR

VETTERGREN KATHRYN

0

10/09/2001

QC

19-MULTI PARCEL ARM'S LE 529.823

DEED

ERIK VETTERGREN JR.

42,000

02/01/1986

WD

03-ARM'S LENGTH

DEED

Property Address

5485 N OTTER RIDGE DR

Owner's Name/Address

CROFF PHILLIP TRUSTEE

5485 N OTTER RIDGE DR

LUDINGTON, MI 49431

Tax Description

PART 410 027 00 NEW 1987 86PARTRIDGE

POINTE NORTH SUBDIVISION LOT 28

Comments/Influences

13:47:14 16 SEP 1997 - SAMS10:39:39 18

OCT 1996 - SAMS11:43:22 01 SEP 1995 -

SAMS01:32:25 07 NOV 1994 - SAMS17:51:51

13 JAN 1994 - SAMS20:46:08 29 JUN 1992 -

SAMS00:33:56 27 DEC 1990 - SAMS

Class: RESIDENTIAL-IMPRO Zoning: R2

Building Permit(s)

Date

Number

Status

School: LUDINGTON AREA SCHOOL DIST

P.R.E. 100% 10/19/2024 

MAP #: 

2026 Est TCV 1,375,698 TCV/TFA: 573.21

X Improved

Vacant

Public

Improvements

Dirt Road

X Gravel Road

Paved Road

Storm Sewer

Sidewalk

Water

Sewer

X Electric

Gas

Curb

Street Lights

Standard Utilities

Underground Utils.

Topography of 

Site

X

Level

Rolling

Low

High

Landscaped

Swamp

Wooded

Pond

X

Waterfront

Ravine

Wetland

Flood Plain

Who When What

STA 08/11/2006

INSPECTED

STA 09/22/2005

INSPECTED

IMP 09/26/1989

INSPECTED

Land Value Estimates for Land Table 4200.HLF - HAMLIN LAKE FRONT

 * Factors *

Description Frontage Depth Front Depth Rate %Adj. Reason Value

 FRONTAGE 145.00 0.00 1.0000 1.0000 3450 100 500,250

145 Actual Front Feet, 0.00 Total Acres Total Est. Land Value = 500,250

Land Improvement Cost Estimates

Description Rate Size % Good Cash Value

Residential Local Cost Land Improvements

Description Rate Size % Good Cash Value

 WELL 5,500.00 1 85 4,675

 SEPTIC 5,500.00 1 85 4,675

 Total Estimated Land Improvements True Cash Value = 9,350

Year

Land

Value 

Building

Value 

Assessed

Value 

Board of

Review 

Tribunal/

Other 

Taxable

Value 

2026

250,100

437,700

687,800

687,800M

687,800S

2025

232,000

460,800

692,800

692,800U

2024

174,000

382,100

556,100

363,693C

2023

152,300

340,000

492,300

346,375C

Page 2

Residential Building 1 of 1

Parcel Number:

007-410-028-00

Printed on

07/07/2026

 (11) Heating/Cooling

X Gas

Oil

Elec.

Wood

Coal

Steam

Forced Air w/o Ducts

Forced Air w/ Ducts

X Forced Hot Water

Electric Baseboard

Elec. Ceil. Radiant

Radiant (in-floor)

Electric Wall Heat

Space Heater

Wall/Floor Furnace

Forced Heat & Cool

Heat Pump

No Heating/Cooling

Central Air

Wood Furnace

 (12) Electric

200

Amps Service

 No./Qual. of Fixtures

Ex.

X Ord.

Min

No. of Elec. Outlets

X Many

Ave.

Few

 (13) Plumbing

Average Fixture(s)

3 3 Fixture Bath

1 2 Fixture Bath

Softner, Auto

Softner, Manual

Solar Water Heat

No Plumbing

Extra Toilet

Extra Sink

Separate Shower

Ceramic Tile Floor

Ceramic Tile Wains

Ceramic Tub Alcove

Vent Fan

 (14) Water/Sewer

Public Water

Public Sewer

Water Well

1000 Gal. Septic

2000 Gal. Septic

Lump Sum Items:

 Building Type

X

Single Family

Mobile Home

Town Home

Duplex

A-Frame

X Wood Frame

Building Style:

TBD

Yr Built

Remodeled

1987

0

Condition: Good

 Room List

Basement

4 1st Floor

2 2nd Floor

4 Bedrooms

 (1) Exterior

X

Wood/Shingle

Aluminum/Vinyl

Brick

X

Insulation

 (2) Windows

X

Many

X

Large

Ave.

Ave.

Few

Small

Wood Sash

Metal Sash

Vinyl Sash

Double Hung

Horiz. Slide

Casement

Double Glass

Patio Doors

Storms & Screens

 (3) Roof

X

Gable

Gambrel

Hip

Mansard

Flat

Shed

X

Ashphalt Shingle

Chimney: Brick

 (3) Roof (cont.)

Eavestrough

Insulation

0 Front Overhang

0 Other Overhang

(4) Interior

X Drywall

Plaster

Paneled

Wood T&G

Trim & Decoration

Ex

X Ord

Min

Size of Closets

Lg

X Ord

Small

Doors

Solid X H.C.

 (5) Floors

Kitchen: 

Other: 

Other: 

 (6) Ceilings

 (7) Excavation

Basement: 1260 S.F.

Crawl: 296 S.F.

Slab: 0 S.F.

Height to Joists: 0.0

 (8) Basement

Conc. Block

Poured Conc.

Stone

Treated Wood

Concrete Floor

 (9) Basement Finish

Recreation SF

630 Living SF

2 Walkout Doors (B)

No Floor SF

0 Walkout Doors (A)

 (10) Floor Support

Joists: : SLAB ON GRA

Unsupported Len: 

Cnts.Sup: 

 (15) Built-ins

Appliance Allow.

Cook Top

1 Dishwasher

1 Garbage Disposal

Bath Heater

Vent Fan

Hot Tub

Unvented Hood

1 Vented Hood

Intercom

Jacuzzi Tub

Jacuzzi repl.Tub

1 Oven

Microwave

Standard Range

Self Clean Range

Sauna

Trash Compactor

Central Vacuum

Security System

 (15) Fireplaces

Interior 1 Story

2 Interior 2 Story

2nd/Same Stack

Two Sided

Exterior 1 Story

Exterior 2 Story

Prefab 1 Story

Prefab 2 Story

Heat Circulator

Raised Hearth

Wood Stove

Direct-Vented Ga

 (16) Porches/Decks

Area Type

247 WGEP (1 Story)

16 WPP

32 WCP (1 Story)

240 Treated Wood

144 Treated Wood

60 Treated Wood

456 Treated Wood

 (17) Garage

Year Built: 

Car Capracity: 

Class: B

Exterior: Siding

Brick Ven.: 0

Stone Ven.: 0

Common Wall: 1 Wall

Foundation: 18 Inch

Finished ?: 

Auto. Doors: 0

Mech. Doors: 0

Area: 576

% Good: 0

Storage Area: 0

No Conc. Floor: 0

Bsmnt Garage: 

Carport Area: 

Roof: 

Cost Est. for Res. Bldg: 1 Single Family TBD Cls B 5 Blt 1987

 

(11) Heating System: Forced Hot Water

Ground Area = 1556 SF Floor Area = 2400 SF.

Phy/Ab.Phy/Func/Econ/Comb. % Good=69/100/100/100/69

Building Areas

Stories Exterior Foundation Size Cost New Depr. Cost 

1 Story Siding Basement 416 

2 Story Siding Basement 844 

1

Page 3

Par

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scanswer_valuation.pdfRead complete document text →
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Page 1

STATE OF MICHIGAN

GRETCHEN WHITMER

GOVERNOR

DEPARTMENT OF LICENSING AND REGULATORY AFFAIRS

LANSING

MARLON I. BROWN, DPA 

DIRECTOR

PROPERTY TAX APPEAL ANSWER FORM

VALUATION / UNCAPPING APPEAL

MTT DOCKET NO. 26-000598

 

Respondent’s Contact Information:

Filer Type:

Local Unit of Government

Local Unit of Government:

Township Of Hamlin (MASON)

First Name

M.I.

Last Name

Mailing Address (No., Street, P.O. Box or Rural Route)

City or Town

State

ZIP Code

Telephone Number

E-mail Address

 

Respondent’s Attorney/Authorized Representative’s Contact Information, if any:

First Name

Derek

M.I. 

C

Last Name

Eaton

Firm Name (if any)

Hamlin Township

Address (No., Street, P.O. Box or Rural Route)

3775 N Jebavy Dr

City or Town

Ludington

State

Michigan

ZIP Code

49431

Telephone Number

2318457801

E-mail Address

assessor@hamlintownship.org

 

 

Subject Property Information:

Are the parcels listed by Petitioner contiguous or adjoining? If no, list all parcels that are adjoining in separate groupings.

 *If necessary, attach a separate sheet.

N/A 

Does the subject property have a principal residence exemption of 50% or more?

Yes

Page 2

STATE OF MICHIGAN

GRETCHEN WHITMER

GOVERNOR

DEPARTMENT OF LICENSING AND REGULATORY AFFAIRS

LANSING

MARLON I. BROWN, DPA 

DIRECTOR

Please Explain Your Answer to this Appeal:

The Real Property was determined by the assessor to have an Assessed Value and Taxable Value of 687,800 for the 2026 Assessment Roll. This value was 

confirmed by the March Board of Review. The Assessed Value was determined using mass appraisal techniques approved by the Michigan State Tax Commission.

 

Jurisdictional Issues:

IF PETITIONER IS APPEALING THE TRUE CASH AND/OR TAXABLE VALUES:

Did Petitioner protest the assessment at a Board of Review?

Yes

If Yes, check which Board of Review Petitioner attended:

March

If No, was the Notice of Assessment properly sent to Petitioner prior to the March Board of Review? 

*Submit a copy of the Notice of Assessment with the Answer.

If the July or December Board of Review revised the assessment(s) at issue, did it have authority? 

If yes, please cite the Board’s authority?

Was the assessment(s) at issue established as the result of a clerical error or mutual mistake of fact?

No

If yes, please explain

Is Petitioner appealing from a State Tax Commission Order?

No

If yes, when was it issued?

IF PETITIONER IS APPEALING THE UNCAPPING OF TAXABLE VALUE:

When was the Notice of Uncapping issued?

Under what statutory section was the taxable value uncapped?

Page 3

STATE OF MICHIGAN

GRETCHEN WHITMER

GOVERNOR

DEPARTMENT OF LICENSING AND REGULATORY AFFAIRS

LANSING

MARLON I. BROWN, DPA 

DIRECTOR

Valuation Information:

Parcel Identification Number:

53007-410-028-00

Classification of Property: Real (check one)

 Residential (check one)

Current Assessed Value as established by the Board of Review:

687800

Current Taxable Value as established by the Board of Review:

687800

What do you believe is the fair market value?

1375600

What do you believe is the taxable value?

 

Electronic Signature *Typing your name below will serve as your signature

Respondent’s Signature: 

/s/ Derek C Eaton

Attorney or Authorized Agent’s Signature:

/s/

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01._Property_Tax_Appeal_Petition_Form_Valuation_Poverty_Classification.18884bc2-f915-4d01-b529-628675351d0b.pdfRead complete document text →
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Page 1

STATE OF MICHIGAN

GRETCHEN WHITMER

GOVERNOR

DEPARTMENT OF LICENSING AND REGULATORY AFFAIRS

LANSING

ORLENE HAWKS

DIRECTOR

PROPERTY TAX APPEAL PETITION FORM

VALUATION / EXEMPTION / CLASSIFICATION APPEAL

MOAHR DOCKET NO. 

Do not use this form to appeal Principal Residence Exemption, Qualified Agricultural Exemption, Special Assessment, or Non-Property tax 

disputes.

Pursuant to Michigan Tax Tribunal Rule (TTR) 277(3), you MUST submit a copy of the notice giving rise to the appeal (e.g. Board of Review 

Decision or Notice of Uncapping) with this Small Claims Petition, if applicable. If you do not submit this document, you may be held in default.

Section 1: Petitioner’s Contact Information

Filer Type: Individual 

First Name

Phillip

M.I.

Last Name/Company Name

Croff

Mailing Address (No., Street, P.O. Box or Rural Route)

5485 N Otter Ridge Dr

City or Town

Ludington

State

Michigan

ZIP Code

49431

Telephone Number

312-576-1478

Fax Number

E-mail Address

phillipcroff45@gmail.com

Section 2: Petitioner’s Attorney/Authorized Representative’s Contact Information

First Name

M.I.

Last Name

Firm Name (if any)

Address (No., Street, P.O. Box or Rural Route)

City or Town

State

Michigan

ZIP Code

Telephone Number

Fax Number

E-mail Address 

Section 3: Subject Property Information

How many parcels are you appealing?

1

If you are appealing more than one parcel, are they contiguous or adjoining? 

 *If no, you must file separate appeals for each non-contiguous or non-adjoining parcel.

Property Address (No., Street, City, ST, ZIP) [If multiple, list first property’s address]

5485 N Otter Ridge Dr

Page 2

STATE OF MICHIGAN

GRETCHEN WHITMER

GOVERNOR

DEPARTMENT OF LICENSING AND REGULATORY AFFAIRS

LANSING

ORLENE HAWKS

DIRECTOR

Ludington

Michigan

49431

Taxing Authority (City or Township)

Township Of Hamlin (MASON)

County 

Mason

Section 4: Issues Being Appealed (check all that apply)

True Cash and Taxable Value

 

Section 5: Explain the Reason for this Appeal

The township has assessed the property at $687,800, which implies a True Cash Value of $1,375,600. The best and most reliable evidence of the True Cash Value is 

an arm’s length sale of this property for $1,050,000 on August 29, 2024. I will show the township’s implied value is unsupported by the market, unsupported by the 

appraisal evidence, and inconsistent with Michigan law. I respectfully

request a review and reduction of the property’s taxable and/or assessed value on the grounds that it exceeds the property’s true cash value. My appeal is supported 

by the accompanying letter/appraisal.

Section 6: Jurisdictional Issues

Year(s) you are appealing:

2026

Did you protest the assessment at a Board of Review (BOR)? Yes

If Yes, check which BOR you attended AND upload the BOR decision: March

If No, check the applicable reason(s):

Did you request a Poverty Exemption at the BOR? 

If Yes, check which BOR considered your application AND upload the BOR decision: 

 March  July  December

If No, explain why:

Section 7: Valuation Information *Use the multiple parcel form for additional, contiguous parcels.

Parcel Identification Number: 007-410-028-00

Classification of Property:

Real

Residential

Page 3

STATE OF MICHIGAN

GRETCHEN WHITMER

GOVERNOR

DEPARTMENT OF LICENSING AND REGULATORY AFFAIRS

LANSING

ORLENE HAWKS

DIRECTOR

Current Assessed Value (also known as State Equalized Value) as established by the BOR:

687800

Current Taxable Value as established by the BOR:

687800

What do you believe is the fair market value (also known as True Cash Value)?

1095000 

Multiply the True Cash Value by .5 and enter here. This is your contention of Assessed Value (also known as State Equalized Value).

547500

If you believe the Taxable Value differs from your contention of Assessed Value, enter your contention of Taxable Value.

Section 8: Classification Information *Only the MI Dep’t of Treasury may appeal this issue to the Tribunal*

Parcel Identification Number:

 

Current Classification of Property as established by Board of Review:

What do you believe is the property’s classification?

If improved property, how is the property currently being used?

If improved property, for what use was the property designed?

Fee Information

Does the subject property have a Principal Residence Exemption of at least 50% as of the date of the filing of this petition?

Yes

Are you appealing ONLY the denial of a Poverty Exemption?

No

If you answered yes to either or both of these questions, you are not required to pay any filing fees.

The filing fee is based on the greater of the State Equalized Value or Taxable Value in contention. If you are appealing more than one parcel, the parcel with the 

highest State Equalized Value or Taxable Value in contention will be used to determine your filing fee, plus $25.00 will be added for each additional parcel being 

appealed, not to exceed a total filing fee of $1,000.

If your property is residential property (see MCL 205.762) and

the State Equalized Value or Taxable Value in contention is: Filing Fee is:

$100,000.00 and under $125.00

$100,000.01 to $500,000.00 $200.00

$Over $500,000.00 $300.00

If your property is NOT residential property (see MCL 205.762) and

the State Equalized Value or Taxable Value in contention is: Filing Fee is:

$100,000.00 and under $250.00

* Plus $25.00 for each additional parcel, as indicated above.

If your property is NOT residential property and the State Equalized Value or Taxable Value in contention is $100,000.01 or greater

Page 4

STAT

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SC_Notice_of_Docket_Number.2026-06-18_07-35-36.pdfRead complete document text →
Read document text excerpt

Page 1

STATE OF MICHIGAN

GRETCHEN WHITMER

GOVERNOR

DEPARTMENT OF LICENSING AND REGULATORY AFFAIRS

LANSING

MARLON I. BROWN, DPA

DIRECTOR

MICHIGAN TAX TRIBUNAL · 611 W. OTTAWA ST., LANSING, MI 48933 · 517-335-9760

PO BOX 30232, LANSING, MI 48909 · Other Carriers: 2407 N. GRAND RIVER AVE., LANSING, MI 48906

Phillip Croff,

Petitioner,

MICHIGAN TAX TRIBUNAL

SMALL CLAIMS DIVISION

v 

MTT Docket No. 26-000598

Township Of Hamlin,

Respondent.

NOTICE OF DOCKET NUMBER

TAKE NOTICE that a Small Claims petition has been filed and the above-noted docket 

number has been assigned to that petition. The assignment of the docket number does 

not mean that the Tribunal has authority over the petition or that the petition complies 

with the Tribunal’s rules. The docket number needs to be included on all documents 

submitted in this case.

Respondent shall file an answer to the petition within 28 days of the issuance of a 

copy of this Notice to Respondent. Tribunal answer forms are available on our 

website at www.michigan.gov/taxtrib. Respondents must utilize the appropriate answer 

form. Failure to file the answer within the 28-day time frame may result in the 

placement of Respondent in default, as provided by TTR 281. Further, an electronic 

copy of the petition can be reviewed by utilizing the Docket Lookup Search on the 

Tribunal’s website.

By: Tribunal Clerk

Entered: June 18, 2026

PROOF OF SERVICE

I certify that a copy of the foregoing was sent on the entry date indicated above to the 

parties or their attorneys or authorized representatives, if any, utilizing either the mailing 

or email addresses on file, as provided by those parties, attorneys, or authorized 

representatives.

By: Tribunal Clerk

Page 2

STATE OF MICHIGAN

GRETCHEN WHITMER

GOVERNOR

DEPARTMENT OF LICENSING AND REGULATORY AFFAIRS

LANSING

MARLON I. BROWN, DPA

DIRECTOR

MICHIGAN TAX TRIBUNAL · 611 W. OTTAWA ST., LANSING, MI 48933 · 517-335-9760

PO BOX 30232, LANSING, MI 48909 · Other Carriers: 2407 N. GRAND RIVER AVE., LANSING, MI 48906

Phillip Croff,

Petitioner,

MICHIGAN TAX TRIBUNAL

SMALL CLAIMS DIVISION

v 

MTT Docket No. 26-000598

Township Of Hamlin,

Respondent.

NOTICE OF DOCKET NUMBER

TAKE NOTICE that a Small Claims petition has been filed and the above-noted docket 

number has been assigned to that petition. The assignment of the docket number does 

not mean that the Tribunal has authority over the petition or that the petition complies 

with the Tribunal’s rules. The docket number needs to be included on all documents 

submitted in this case.

Respondent shall file an answer to the petition within 28 days of the issuance of a 

copy of this Notice to Respondent. Tribunal answer forms are available on our 

website at www.michigan.gov/taxtrib. Respondents must utilize the appropriate answer 

form. Failure to file the answer within the 28-day time frame may result in the 

placement of Respondent in default, as provided by TTR 281. Further, an electronic 

copy of the petition can be reviewed by utilizing the Docket Lookup Search on the 

Tribunal’s website.

By: Tribunal Clerk

Entered: June 18, 2026

PROOF OF SERVICE

I certify that a copy of the foregoing was sent on the entry date indicated above to the 

parties or their attorneys or authorized representatives, if any, utilizing either the mailing 

or email addresses on file, as provided by those parties, attorneys, or authorized 

representatives.

By: Tribunal Clerk

Page 3

STATE OF MICHIGAN

GRETCHEN WHITMER

GOVERNOR

DEPARTMENT OF LICENSING AND REGULATORY AFFAIRS

LANSING

MARLON I. BROWN, DPA

DIRECTOR

MICHIGAN TAX TRIBUNAL · 611 W. OTTAWA ST., LANSING, MI 48933 · 517-335-9760

PO BOX 30232, LANSING, MI 48909 · Other Carriers: 2407 N. GRAND RIVER AVE., LANSING, MI 48906

Phillip Croff,

Petitioner,

MICHIGAN TAX TRIBUNAL

SMALL CLAIMS DIVISION

v 

MTT Docket No. 26-000598

Township Of Hamlin,

Respondent.

NOTICE OF DOCKET NUMBER

TAKE NOTICE that a Small Claims petition has been filed and the above-noted docket 

number has been assigned to that petition. The assignment of the docket number does 

not mean that the Tribunal has authority over the petition or that the petition complies 

with the Tribunal’s rules. The docket number needs to be included on all documents 

submitted in this case.

Respondent shall file an answer to the petition within 28 days of the issuance of a 

copy of this Notice to Respondent. Tribunal answer forms are available on our 

website at www.michigan.gov/taxtrib. Respondents must utilize the appropriate answer 

form. Failure to file the answer within the 28-day time frame may result in the 

placement of Respondent in default, as provided by TTR 281. Further, an electronic 

copy of the petition can be reviewed by utilizing the Docket Lookup Search on the 

Tribunal’s website.

By: Tribunal Clerk

Entered: June 18, 2026

PROOF OF SERVICE

I certify that a copy of the foregoing was sent on the entry date indicated above to the 

parties or their attorneys or authorized representatives, if any, utilizing either the mailing 

or email addresses on file, as provided by those parties, attorneys, or authorized 

representatives.

By: Tribunal Clerk

These are text excerpts, not the complete document. Text recognition and reading order can contain errors. Check the PDF for complete wording, formatting, and context.

Read document text excerpt

Page 1

UAD Version 9/2011 Produced by ClickFORMS Software 800-622-8727

INVOICE

Date:

File No.

Prepared for:

Property Appraised:

Work Performed:

$

$

$

$

$

$

Total Amount Due:

$

Please make checks payable to:

04/13/2026

202604-14

Croff Estate

NO AMC

Phillip Croff

5485 N Otter Ridge Dr

Ludington, MI 49431

Phillip Croff

5485 N Otter Ridge Dr

Ludington, MI 49431

$0

Paid

$0

0.00

Boardman Appraisal Associates

3890 Morningside Dr

Traverse City, MI 49684

38-3254979

Page 2

APPRAISAL REPORT

OF

PREPARED FOR

AS OF

PREPARED BY

5485 N Otter Ridge Dr

Ludington, MI 49431

NO AMC

Phillip Croff

5485 N Otter Ridge Dr

Ludington, MI 49431

04/09/2026

Boardman Appraisal Associates

3890 Morningside Dr

Traverse City, MI 49684

Page 3

RE:

File No.

Case No.

In accordance with your request, I have personally inspected and prepared an appraisal report of the real

property located at:

The purpose of this appraisal is to estimate the market value of the property described in the body of this

appraisal report.

Enclosed, please find the appraisal report which describes certain data gathered during our investigation

of the property. The methods of approach and reasoning in the valuation of the various physical and

economic factors of the subject property are contained in this report.

An inspection of the property and a study of pertinent factors, including valuation trends and an analysis of

neighborhood data, led the appraiser to the conclusion that the market value, as of

is:

$

The opinion of value expressed in this report is contingent upon the limiting conditions attached to this

report.

It has been a pleasure to assist you. If I may be of further service to you in the future, please let me know.

Respectfully submitted,

Signature:

Boardman Appraisal Associates

3890 Morningside Dr

Traverse City, MI 49684

04/13/2026

Phillip Croff

5485 N Otter Ridge Dr

Ludington, MI 49431

Phillip Croff

5485 N Otter Ridge Dr

Ludington, MI 49431

202604-14

Croff Estate

5485 N Otter Ridge Dr, Ludington, MI 49431

04/09/2026

1,095,000

Julie Howe

Page 4

UAD Version 9/2011 Produced by ClickFORMS Software 800-622-8727

File No.

Owner

Property Address

City

County

State

Zip Code

Client

Address

Page

of

Boardman Appraisal Associates

NO ADDITIONAL INTENDED USERS ARE AUTHORIZED

202604-14

Croff Estate

CROFF PHILLIP TRUSTEE

5485 N Otter Ridge Dr

Ludington

Mason

MI

49431

Phillip Croff

5485 N Otter Ridge Dr, Ludington, MI 49431

3

52

Page 5

UAD Version 9/2011 Produced by ClickFORMS Software 800-622-8727

File No.

Uniform Residential Appraisal Report

The purpose of this appraisal report is to provide the lender/client with an accurate, and adequately supported, opinion of the market value of the subject property.

Property Address

City

State

Zip Code

Borrower

Owner of Public Record

County

Legal Description

Assessor's Parcel #

Tax Year

R.E. Taxes $

Neighborhood Name

Map Reference

Census Tract

Occupant

 

Owner

 

Tenant

 

Vacant Special Assessments $

 

PUD

HOA $

per year

per month

Property Rights Appraised

 

Fee Simple

 

Leasehold

Other (describe)

Assignment Type

Purchase Transaction

Refinance Transaction

Other (describe)

Lender/Client

Address

Is the subject property currently offered for sale or has it been offered for sale in the twelve months prior to the effective date of this appraisal?

Yes

No

Report data source(s) used, offerings price(s), and date(s).

SUBJECT

I

did

did not analyze the contract for sale for the subject purchase transaction. Explain the results of the analysis of the contract for sale or why the analysis was not

performed.

Contract Price $

Date of Contract

Is the property seller the owner of public record?

Yes

No Data Source(s)

Is there any financial assistance (loan charges, sale concessions, gift or down payment assistance, etc.) to be paid by any party on behalf of the borrower?

Yes

No

If Yes, report the total dollar amount and describe the items to be paid.

CONTRACT

Note: Race and the racial composition of the neighborhood are not appraisal factors.

Neighborhood Characteristics

One-Unit Housing Trends

One-Unit Housing

Present Land Use %

Location

Urban

Suburban

Rural

Property Values

Increasing

Stable

Declining

PRICE

AGE

One-Unit

%

Built-Up

Over 75%

25-75%

Under 25% Demand/Supply

Shortage

In Balance

Over Supply

$ (000)

(yrs)

2-4 Unit

%

Growth

Rapid

Stable

Slow

Marketing Time

Under 3 mths

3-6 mths

Over 6 mths

Low

Multi-Family

%

Neighborhood Boundaries

High

Commercial

%

Pred.

Other

%

Neighborhood Description

Market Conditions (including support for the above conclusions)

NEIGHBORHOOD

Dimensions

Area

Shape

View

Specific Zoning Classification

Zoning Description

Zoning Compliance

Legal

 

Legal Nonconforming (Grandfathered Use)

No Zoning

 

Illegal (describe)

Is the highest and best use of subject property as improved (or as proposed per plans and specifications) the present use?

Yes

 

No If No, describe.

Utilities Public Other (describe)

Public Other (describe)

Off-site Improvements--Type

Public

Private

Electricity

Water

 

Street

Gas

Sanitary Sewer

 

Alley

FEMA Special Flood Hazard Area

Yes

No FEMA Flood Zone

FEMA Map #

FEMA Map Date

Are the utilities and/or off-site improvements typical for the market area?

Yes

 

No If No, describe.

Are there any adverse site conditions or external factors (easements, encroachments, environmental conditions, land uses, etc.)?

Yes

 

No If Yes, describe.

SITE

General Description

Foundation

Exterior Description

materials/condition Interior

materials/condition

Units

 

One

 

One with Accessory Unit

 

Concrete Slab

Page 6

UAD

Page 7

UAD

Page 8

Ne

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Consolidated MTT Appeal Letter.pdfRead complete document text →
Read document text excerpt

Page 1

Phillip Croff 

5485 N Otter Ridge Dr, Ludington, MI 49431 

(312) 576-1478

PhillipCroff45@gmail.com

Date: 4/14/26 

Michigan Tax Tribunal 

P.O. Box 30232 

Lansing, MI 48909 

RE: Appeal of Property Assessment – Request for Correction of True Cash Value 

Parcel Address: 5485 N Otter Ridge Dr, Ludington, MI 49431 

Parcel ID: 007-410-028-00 

Tax Year: 2026 

Dear Members of the Michigan Tax Tribunal: 

I am writing to formally appeal the assessed value of my property located at 5485 N Otter 

Ridge Dr, Ludington, Michigan, for the 2026 tax year. The township has assessed the property 

at $687,800, which implies a True Cash Value of $1,375,600. The best and most reliable 

evidence of the True Cash Value is an arm’s length sale of this property for $1,050,000 on 

August 29, 2024. I will show the township’s implied value is unsupported by the market, 

unsupported by the appraisal evidence, and inconsistent with Michigan law. I respectfully 

request a review and reduction of the property’s taxable and/or assessed value on the 

grounds that it exceeds the property’s true cash value. 

Basis for Appeal 

The current assessment does not accurately reflect the fair market value of my property. My 

appeal is based on the following: 

1. Corroborated Cash Value:

Under MCL 211.27(6), a recent arm’s length sale is the best evidence of True Cash

Value unless proven otherwise. The property was purchased in August 2024 for

$1,050,000 in an arm’s-length transaction between unrelated parties after being fully

exposed to the open market. A recent arm’s-length sale is widely recognized as one

of the strongest indicators of True Cash Value and should be a consideration when

determining the True Cash Value. However, the current assessment reflects an

implied market value of $1,375,600, which substantially exceeds the cash purchase

price (131%).

2. Appraised Value:

The property was appraised by a licensed, third-party appraiser in April-’26 for

$1,095,000 (attached). This appraisal was completed by State of Michigan ‘Certified

Page 2

Residential Real Estate Appraiser’ and should be taken into consideration when 

determining fair market value; importantly, nothing in the appraisal supports a value 

close to $1.375M. 

 

3. Comparable Sales: 

The township is asserting the property increased in value by 31% in only 16 months. 

There is no market evidence supporting a 31% appreciation in Hamlin Lake waterfront 

properties during this period. Comparable homes with similar size, condition, and 

location have sold for significantly less (in fact, the past 4 years have produced 2 

examples of properties selling for $1.3MM+; strongly suggesting the area simply 

doesn’t support home values at the proposed assessed value). Supporting 

documentation is attached. 

 

4. Property Condition: 

The property needs repairs to the damaged waterfront area. This factor negatively 

impacts its market value and is not adequately reflected in the current assessment. 

Supporting documentation can be found in the attached Appraisal (see pictures for 

evidence of significant damage from ice flow). 

 

5. Assessment Inequity: 

Michigan law requires uniformity in property assessments. Similar properties in the 

area appear to be assessed at values comparable to their sale price (i.e. 95% per data 

provided by Township Assessor; see attached), indicating a lack of uniformity in 

assessments. Assessments should be equitable when compared to similar 

properties within the same neighborhood and market area. Supporting 

documentation is attached. 

 

Requested Adjustment 

I have provided three independent, mutually reinforcing indicators: 

1. Arm’s length sale: $1,050,000 

2. Adjusted comparable range: $998,680 – $1,217,140 

3. Market conditions: No evidence of 31% appreciation 

Based on the evidence provided, I believe the true cash value of the property is 

approximately $1,095,000, which would result in a corresponding reduction in assessed and 

taxable value. 

 

Supporting Documentation 

Enclosed/attached are the following materials to support my appeal: 

• 

Assessed Value data for Area Properties 

• 

Appraisal Report (with accompanying photographs of the property) 

o Comparable property sales data (within the Appraisal Report)

Page 3

I respectfully request that the Tribunal consider this evidence and adjust the property’s 

valuation accordingly. I am available to provide additional information or participate in a 

hearing if necessary. 

 

Thank you for your time and consideration. 

 

Sincerely, 

Phillip Croff

Page 4

Parcel ID

Address

Sale Date

Sale Price

Assessed at 

Time of Sale

2026 Assessed

Assessed 

Value/Sale 

Price

Assessed 

Market Value

Assessed 

Market 

Value/Sale 

Price

Subject Property

007-410-028-00

5485 N OTTER RIDGE DR

08/29/2024

1,050,000

$ 

556,100

$ 

687,800

$ 

66%

1,375,600

$ 

131%

Comparable Properties

007-001-001-80

4977 W NURNBERG RD

07/17/2023

1,415,000

$ 

617,900

$ 

896,700

$ 

63%

1,793,400

$ 

127%

007-002-093-00

5788 W BARNHART RD

06/30/2023

865,000

$ 

304,100

$ 

457,600

$ 

53%

915,200

$ 

106%

007-010-004-00

5943 N REDNALIS LANE

06/27/2025

1,550,000

$ 

485,000

$ 

489,900

$ 

32%

979,800

$ 

63%

007-259-008-00

4643 N LAKESHORE DR

11/08/2024

985,000

$ 

316,300

$ 

381,200

$ 

39%

762,400

$ 

77%

007-290-012-00

6311 N CHERRY LANE

11/14/2022

950,000

$ 

367,300

$ 

512,800

$ 

54%

1,025,600

$ 

108%

007-290-028-00

6818 W VESPER DR

06/30/2025

929,000

$ 

419,200

$ 

429,600

$ 

46%

859,200

$ 

92%

007-295-012-00

6935 W

Page 5

03/24/2026 

12:00 

PM

These are text excerpts, not the complete document. Text recognition and reading order can contain errors. Check the PDF for complete wording, formatting, and context.

Read document text excerpt

Page 1

UAD Version 9/2011 Produced by ClickFORMS Software 800-622-8727

INVOICE

Date:

File No.

Prepared for:

Property Appraised:

Work Performed:

$

$

$

$

$

$

Total Amount Due:

$

Please make checks payable to:

04/13/2026

202604-14

Croff Estate

NO AMC

Phillip Croff

5485 N Otter Ridge Dr

Ludington, MI 49431

Phillip Croff

5485 N Otter Ridge Dr

Ludington, MI 49431

$0

Paid

$0

0.00

Boardman Appraisal Associates

3890 Morningside Dr

Traverse City, MI 49684

38-3254979

Page 2

APPRAISAL REPORT

OF

PREPARED FOR

AS OF

PREPARED BY

5485 N Otter Ridge Dr

Ludington, MI 49431

NO AMC

Phillip Croff

5485 N Otter Ridge Dr

Ludington, MI 49431

04/09/2026

Boardman Appraisal Associates

3890 Morningside Dr

Traverse City, MI 49684

Page 3

RE:

File No.

Case No.

In accordance with your request, I have personally inspected and prepared an appraisal report of the real

property located at:

The purpose of this appraisal is to estimate the market value of the property described in the body of this

appraisal report.

Enclosed, please find the appraisal report which describes certain data gathered during our investigation

of the property. The methods of approach and reasoning in the valuation of the various physical and

economic factors of the subject property are contained in this report.

An inspection of the property and a study of pertinent factors, including valuation trends and an analysis of

neighborhood data, led the appraiser to the conclusion that the market value, as of

is:

$

The opinion of value expressed in this report is contingent upon the limiting conditions attached to this

report.

It has been a pleasure to assist you. If I may be of further service to you in the future, please let me know.

Respectfully submitted,

Signature:

Boardman Appraisal Associates

3890 Morningside Dr

Traverse City, MI 49684

04/13/2026

Phillip Croff

5485 N Otter Ridge Dr

Ludington, MI 49431

Phillip Croff

5485 N Otter Ridge Dr

Ludington, MI 49431

202604-14

Croff Estate

5485 N Otter Ridge Dr, Ludington, MI 49431

04/09/2026

1,095,000

Julie Howe

Page 4

UAD Version 9/2011 Produced by ClickFORMS Software 800-622-8727

File No.

Owner

Property Address

City

County

State

Zip Code

Client

Address

Page

of

Boardman Appraisal Associates

NO ADDITIONAL INTENDED USERS ARE AUTHORIZED

202604-14

Croff Estate

CROFF PHILLIP TRUSTEE

5485 N Otter Ridge Dr

Ludington

Mason

MI

49431

Phillip Croff

5485 N Otter Ridge Dr, Ludington, MI 49431

3

52

Page 5

UAD Version 9/2011 Produced by ClickFORMS Software 800-622-8727

File No.

Uniform Residential Appraisal Report

The purpose of this appraisal report is to provide the lender/client with an accurate, and adequately supported, opinion of the market value of the subject property.

Property Address

City

State

Zip Code

Borrower

Owner of Public Record

County

Legal Description

Assessor's Parcel #

Tax Year

R.E. Taxes $

Neighborhood Name

Map Reference

Census Tract

Occupant

 

Owner

 

Tenant

 

Vacant Special Assessments $

 

PUD

HOA $

per year

per month

Property Rights Appraised

 

Fee Simple

 

Leasehold

Other (describe)

Assignment Type

Purchase Transaction

Refinance Transaction

Other (describe)

Lender/Client

Address

Is the subject property currently offered for sale or has it been offered for sale in the twelve months prior to the effective date of this appraisal?

Yes

No

Report data source(s) used, offerings price(s), and date(s).

SUBJECT

I

did

did not analyze the contract for sale for the subject purchase transaction. Explain the results of the analysis of the contract for sale or why the analysis was not

performed.

Contract Price $

Date of Contract

Is the property seller the owner of public record?

Yes

No Data Source(s)

Is there any financial assistance (loan charges, sale concessions, gift or down payment assistance, etc.) to be paid by any party on behalf of the borrower?

Yes

No

If Yes, report the total dollar amount and describe the items to be paid.

CONTRACT

Note: Race and the racial composition of the neighborhood are not appraisal factors.

Neighborhood Characteristics

One-Unit Housing Trends

One-Unit Housing

Present Land Use %

Location

Urban

Suburban

Rural

Property Values

Increasing

Stable

Declining

PRICE

AGE

One-Unit

%

Built-Up

Over 75%

25-75%

Under 25% Demand/Supply

Shortage

In Balance

Over Supply

$ (000)

(yrs)

2-4 Unit

%

Growth

Rapid

Stable

Slow

Marketing Time

Under 3 mths

3-6 mths

Over 6 mths

Low

Multi-Family

%

Neighborhood Boundaries

High

Commercial

%

Pred.

Other

%

Neighborhood Description

Market Conditions (including support for the above conclusions)

NEIGHBORHOOD

Dimensions

Area

Shape

View

Specific Zoning Classification

Zoning Description

Zoning Compliance

Legal

 

Legal Nonconforming (Grandfathered Use)

No Zoning

 

Illegal (describe)

Is the highest and best use of subject property as improved (or as proposed per plans and specifications) the present use?

Yes

 

No If No, describe.

Utilities Public Other (describe)

Public Other (describe)

Off-site Improvements--Type

Public

Private

Electricity

Water

 

Street

Gas

Sanitary Sewer

 

Alley

FEMA Special Flood Hazard Area

Yes

No FEMA Flood Zone

FEMA Map #

FEMA Map Date

Are the utilities and/or off-site improvements typical for the market area?

Yes

 

No If No, describe.

Are there any adverse site conditions or external factors (easements, encroachments, environmental conditions, land uses, etc.)?

Yes

 

No If Yes, describe.

SITE

General Description

Foundation

Exterior Description

materials/condition Interior

materials/condition

Units

 

One

 

One with Accessory Unit

 

Concrete Slab

Page 6

UAD

Page 7

UAD

Page 8

Ne

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01._Property_Tax_Appeal_Petition_Form_Valuation_Poverty_Classification.18884bc2-f915-4d01-b529-628675351d0b.pdfRead complete document text →
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Page 1

STATE OF MICHIGAN

GRETCHEN WHITMER

GOVERNOR

DEPARTMENT OF LICENSING AND REGULATORY AFFAIRS

LANSING

ORLENE HAWKS

DIRECTOR

PROPERTY TAX APPEAL PETITION FORM

VALUATION / EXEMPTION / CLASSIFICATION APPEAL

MOAHR DOCKET NO. 

Do not use this form to appeal Principal Residence Exemption, Qualified Agricultural Exemption, Special Assessment, or Non-Property tax 

disputes.

Pursuant to Michigan Tax Tribunal Rule (TTR) 277(3), you MUST submit a copy of the notice giving rise to the appeal (e.g. Board of Review 

Decision or Notice of Uncapping) with this Small Claims Petition, if applicable. If you do not submit this document, you may be held in default.

Section 1: Petitioner’s Contact Information

Filer Type: Individual 

First Name

Phillip

M.I.

Last Name/Company Name

Croff

Mailing Address (No., Street, P.O. Box or Rural Route)

5485 N Otter Ridge Dr

City or Town

Ludington

State

Michigan

ZIP Code

49431

Telephone Number

312-576-1478

Fax Number

E-mail Address

phillipcroff45@gmail.com

Section 2: Petitioner’s Attorney/Authorized Representative’s Contact Information

First Name

M.I.

Last Name

Firm Name (if any)

Address (No., Street, P.O. Box or Rural Route)

City or Town

State

Michigan

ZIP Code

Telephone Number

Fax Number

E-mail Address 

Section 3: Subject Property Information

How many parcels are you appealing?

1

If you are appealing more than one parcel, are they contiguous or adjoining? 

 *If no, you must file separate appeals for each non-contiguous or non-adjoining parcel.

Property Address (No., Street, City, ST, ZIP) [If multiple, list first property’s address]

5485 N Otter Ridge Dr

Page 2

STATE OF MICHIGAN

GRETCHEN WHITMER

GOVERNOR

DEPARTMENT OF LICENSING AND REGULATORY AFFAIRS

LANSING

ORLENE HAWKS

DIRECTOR

Ludington

Michigan

49431

Taxing Authority (City or Township)

Township Of Hamlin (MASON)

County 

Mason

Section 4: Issues Being Appealed (check all that apply)

True Cash and Taxable Value

 

Section 5: Explain the Reason for this Appeal

The township has assessed the property at $687,800, which implies a True Cash Value of $1,375,600. The best and most reliable evidence of the True Cash Value is 

an arm’s length sale of this property for $1,050,000 on August 29, 2024. I will show the township’s implied value is unsupported by the market, unsupported by the 

appraisal evidence, and inconsistent with Michigan law. I respectfully

request a review and reduction of the property’s taxable and/or assessed value on the grounds that it exceeds the property’s true cash value. My appeal is supported 

by the accompanying letter/appraisal.

Section 6: Jurisdictional Issues

Year(s) you are appealing:

2026

Did you protest the assessment at a Board of Review (BOR)? Yes

If Yes, check which BOR you attended AND upload the BOR decision: March

If No, check the applicable reason(s):

Did you request a Poverty Exemption at the BOR? 

If Yes, check which BOR considered your application AND upload the BOR decision: 

 March  July  December

If No, explain why:

Section 7: Valuation Information *Use the multiple parcel form for additional, contiguous parcels.

Parcel Identification Number: 007-410-028-00

Classification of Property:

Real

Residential

Page 3

STATE OF MICHIGAN

GRETCHEN WHITMER

GOVERNOR

DEPARTMENT OF LICENSING AND REGULATORY AFFAIRS

LANSING

ORLENE HAWKS

DIRECTOR

Current Assessed Value (also known as State Equalized Value) as established by the BOR:

687800

Current Taxable Value as established by the BOR:

687800

What do you believe is the fair market value (also known as True Cash Value)?

1095000 

Multiply the True Cash Value by .5 and enter here. This is your contention of Assessed Value (also known as State Equalized Value).

547500

If you believe the Taxable Value differs from your contention of Assessed Value, enter your contention of Taxable Value.

Section 8: Classification Information *Only the MI Dep’t of Treasury may appeal this issue to the Tribunal*

Parcel Identification Number:

 

Current Classification of Property as established by Board of Review:

What do you believe is the property’s classification?

If improved property, how is the property currently being used?

If improved property, for what use was the property designed?

Fee Information

Does the subject property have a Principal Residence Exemption of at least 50% as of the date of the filing of this petition?

Yes

Are you appealing ONLY the denial of a Poverty Exemption?

No

If you answered yes to either or both of these questions, you are not required to pay any filing fees.

The filing fee is based on the greater of the State Equalized Value or Taxable Value in contention. If you are appealing more than one parcel, the parcel with the 

highest State Equalized Value or Taxable Value in contention will be used to determine your filing fee, plus $25.00 will be added for each additional parcel being 

appealed, not to exceed a total filing fee of $1,000.

If your property is residential property (see MCL 205.762) and

the State Equalized Value or Taxable Value in contention is: Filing Fee is:

$100,000.00 and under $125.00

$100,000.01 to $500,000.00 $200.00

$Over $500,000.00 $300.00

If your property is NOT residential property (see MCL 205.762) and

the State Equalized Value or Taxable Value in contention is: Filing Fee is:

$100,000.00 and under $250.00

* Plus $25.00 for each additional parcel, as indicated above.

If your property is NOT residential property and the State Equalized Value or Taxable Value in contention is $100,000.01 or greater

Page 4

STAT

These are text excerpts, not the complete document. Text recognition and reading order can contain errors. Check the PDF for complete wording, formatting, and context.